SEVEN FOODS THAT WILL GIVE YOU A SMASHING SMILE

Did you know? Teeth naturally darken with age and their color can be affected by the buildup of stains from certain foods and drinks.

Posted
Thursday, July 26, 2018 11:19 am

Dr. Alina Bergan DDS

Chow down on these seven tasty treats, recommended by Dr. Alina Bergan DDS and our staff, for a healthier mouth and a smashing smile!

Sesame Seeds

These tiny seeds that you find in some Chinese and Thai dishes (as well as on top of your hamburger bun) are packed with bone-building calcium. They help to preserve and protect the bone that supports your teeth and gums. As a bonus, they also help to build up your tooth enamel while sloughing away plaque. You can sprinkle them on a salad, stir fry, and even add them to homemade hummus.

Kiwi

This funny little fruit has the highest amount of Vitamin C of any fruit, including oranges! What does this mean for your choppers? Vitamin C is essential to keeping your gum tissue healthy and strong. Without it, they are more susceptible to periodontal disease.

Sweet Potatoes

These are not just for Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner! You should add sweet potatoes to your regular diet. These delicious spuds are rich in Vitamin A, which your body uses to form tooth enamel and heal gum tissue. Try slicing them into half-moons and sprinkling with your favorite seasoning or try an exotic one like Harissa and bake them in the oven.

Onions

You know those strong vapors from onions that make you cry? Well, they come from the sulfur compounds in the vegetable, which gives them a superpower-packed antibacterial punch. Get ready, though: Onions are most effective for your smile when you eat them raw!

Cheese

If you love cheese, you will love this news! Munching on some cheese helps prevent gum disease and cavities. The reason is that cheese is very high in calcium and phosphate, which help to balance the pH levels in your mouth. This in turn helps to preserve your tooth enamel and kill harmful bacteria.

Green Tea

Sipping on some green tea can not only help prevent cavities and gum disease, it can also kill the bacteria that cause bad breath. Score! Green tea can kill the bacteria that cause plaque. So, drink up! Your smile depends on it! You can also try some Japanese Matcha (green tea powder) in your smoothie or green juice.

Celery

Have some fun with that crunchy stuff because, guess what? It is great for your smile! When you chew celery, you produce saliva. Your saliva neutralizes cavity-causing bacteria. As a little bonus, while you are chewing, it is giving your gums a little massage and cleaning between your teeth.

Take advantage of these healthy foods and give your mouth something to smile about!